19 JUN. 2024 · In this engaging episode of "Juneteenth in Galveston, Where it All Began," host Cornelia Harris Banks introduces Brandon Levias, an active community member and event planner. Brandon shares his journey from growing up in Orange, Texas to his significant involvement in organizing Juneteenth festivities in Galveston through his business, Luminosity Event Services, and other community efforts. He goes into detail about his role in orchestrating various activities, from Family Fun Days to the Emancipation March, highlighting the historical and cultural importance of these events. Furthermore, Brandon speaks about his lineage, including notable relatives such as the famous boxer Jack Johnson, and emphasizes the deep historical connections of his family to the region. This episode also covers the involvement of prominent figures like Attorney Benjamin Crump and the collective efforts of the Galveston United Juneteenth Alliance. The episode concludes with an emotional reflection on the significance of Juneteenth to not only the local community but also to the broader narrative of American history and civil rights.

18 JUN. 2024 · This episode of "Juneteenth in Galveston, Where It All Began" features an in-depth conversation with Ronald Dean, the Vice President of the Galveston Island African American Treasures. Ronald shares his personal journey, including his upbringing in Galveston, his education, his service in the Marine Corps during Vietnam, and his return to Galveston. He speaks about the creation of their group, which aims to document and preserve the African American heritage in Galveston and Texas. The episode also explores the group's origins, their early experiences at the Holy Rosary Catholic School, and their future projects, including compiling a photographic portfolio of the school's attendees and other historical information. Ronald emphasizes the rich history of Galveston and its significance, inviting listeners to explore and contribute to the preservation efforts.

14 JUN. 2024 · The episode "JUNETEENTH IN GALVESTON, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN. S2 EP #9 DAVID MITCHELL" features an interview with David Mitchell, a native of Galveston, Texas, also known as "B O I" or "Born on the Island." David discusses his role with the PARD (Galveston Park Board), specifically focusing on the African American Beach Lifeguard Steering Committee. He highlights the historical and cultural significance of African American lifeguards in Galveston during the 20th century and their contributions during segregation. The conversation also includes the efforts to fundraise for a statue to be placed at 28th and Seawall, celebrating these lifeguards' legacy. Additionally, the episode covers the broad responsibilities of the Galveston Island Beach Patrol, the importance of water safety, educational outreach, and the role of volunteer programs like Wave Watchers in ensuring beach safety. The interview emphasizes the need for community awareness and celebrates Galveston's diverse history and ongoing efforts to honor its past while ensuring the safety and enjoyment of its beaches for all visitors.

14 JUN. 2024 · In this episode, the host interviews James Clark, the chairperson of the Galveston chapter of the Texas Restaurant Association. They discuss the role of local restaurants and community organizations in celebrating Juneteenth, especially in Galveston Island, Texas, where the holiday originated. James talks about his collaboration with Alex Thomas from Visit Galveston to increase awareness and celebrations for Juneteenth on the island. He emphasizes the importance of local businesses, particularly small family-run restaurants, in contributing to the festivities. The episode also highlights Galveston's diverse culinary offerings and its suitability as a destination for family reunions and cultural experiences. The conversation encourages listeners to visit Galveston and partake in its rich traditions and vibrant food scene, celebrating Juneteenth not just on the day itself, but throughout the year.

14 JUN. 2024 · In this episode, the host introduces Danny Allen, a notable Galveston citizen and former city council member. Danny discusses his experiences growing up in Galveston and the prominent role Juneteenth has played in the community. He shares details about his father's contributions as an entrepreneur and philanthropist, highlighting the significance of various African American-owned businesses in Galveston's history. Danny emphasizes the importance of preserving and celebrating Juneteenth, which marks the end of slavery, and reflects on the changes and challenges faced by the African American community over the years. Furthermore, he underscores the need for continued community involvement and education about African American history to ensure that future generations understand and appreciate this pivotal part of American history. The conversation also touches on the economic impacts of segregation and integration, the loss of black-owned businesses, and the resilience of Galveston's residents.

14 JUN. 2024 · In this episode, we explore the rich history and exciting festivities of Juneteenth in Galveston, Texas. Our special guest, Caitlin Carnes from the Galveston Park Board, provides an extensive overview of the various events and activities happening in Galveston, both for Juneteenth and beyond. Caitlin discusses the historical significance of Galveston as the birthplace of Juneteenth and highlights numerous local festivals, such as Mardi Gras, Dickens on the Strand, and various food and wine events. She also details the role of the Galveston Park Board in promoting tourism and maintaining the island’s natural assets, including their efforts in beach nourishment and cleanup. Listeners will gain insights into the Park Board's funding mechanisms and their initiatives to enhance local culture and heritage tourism. Caitlin elaborates on specific Juneteenth events, including the Emancipation Celebration Gospel Concert at the Grand Opera House, the Juneteenth Gala, the Comedy Fest, and the Freedom Walks. She emphasizes the importance of these celebrations in honoring the struggle for equality and keeping the history of Juneteenth alive. By the end of the episode, Caitlin and the host encourage listeners to visit Galveston and experience its vibrant history and celebrations firsthand, especially during the Juneteenth festivities.

14 JUN. 2024 · In this episode of our podcast series on Juneteenth, we speak with Sandra Woodard from Galveston, Texas. Sandra shares insights about her background, including her education and long-standing involvement in community activities and organizations like Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. The main focus is on the Juneteenth Sneaker Ball, an annual celebration organized by local fraternities andsororities. Sandra discusses the significance of the event, designed to honor the spirit of Juneteenth with a relaxed, celebratory atmosphere that welcomes people from all over. The episode also touches on the historical and cultural significance of Galveston, highlighting its unique history and the importance of preserving it. Sandra invites listeners to participate and support the event, which doubles as a fundraiser for scholarships and cultural initiatives in the community.

14 JUN. 2024 · In this episode, the host welcomes Councilwoman Sharon Lewis of Galveston’s District 1 to discuss the rich history and vibrant celebrations of Juneteenth in Galveston, Texas. Councilwoman Lewis shares insights about her background in education, her role in city council, and her efforts toward making Juneteenth a prominent and nationally recognized event. The episode highlights various Juneteenth activities and events in Galveston, including the scholarship gala, the Juneteenth Banquet, the historical reenactments, and the development of the Galveston United Juneteenth Alliance (GUJA) website. Councilwoman Lewis also discusses the development of a Juneteenth museum and the increased tourism and economic impact brought by these festivities. Listeners learn about other engaging activities in Galveston such as home tours, the Pleasure Pier, Moody Gardens, and fishing excursions, making the island a year-round tourist destination. The episode wraps up with an invitation for everyone to visit Galveston and experience Juneteenth celebrations first-hand, where it all began.

14 JUN. 2024 · In this episode, we hear from Mrs. Sue Johnson, the founder and executive director of the Neocultural Center in Galveston, Texas. She discusses her background and efforts to preserve the history and culture of Galveston, particularly through activities related to Juneteenth. The conversation highlights the annual Emancipation Gospel Celebration and its featured entertainers, including Galveston greats and Fred Hammond. Mrs. Johnson provides insights into the significance of gospel music in Galveston's history and how it was used by enslaved people for communication during the Underground Railroad era. She also speaks about the meaningful awards given to individuals who contributed to civil and human rights, some of which are awarded posthumously. The episode delves into the creation and impact of the Absolute Equality Mural, commemorating Juneteenth and African American history. Furthermore, it touches on various educational and cultural programs run by the Neocultural Center, such as the Youth of Nia Award, the Girls Rights of Passage program, and the Children's Defense Fund Freedom School. Mrs. Johnson also mentions upcoming events, like lectures and exhibitions, associated with Juneteenth, and emphasizes the broader community's support in making these events possible. The dialogue closes with an encouragement for people to visit Galveston to experience its rich history and vibrant celebrations firsthand.

14 JUN. 2024 · In this episode, Cornelia Harris Banks interviews Alice Gatson, a retired biologist from the University of Texas Medical Branch and a dedicated member of the Galveston Historical Foundation. Alice discusses her work with the African American Heritage Committee, highlighting their efforts in researching and educating the public about Galveston's African American history. They delve into projects such as the restoration of Rosewood Cemetery and the creation of educational books. The conversation touches on the history of prominent African Americans in Galveston, including Norris Wright Cuny, and the importance of Juneteenth celebrations. Alice also shares insights into the Underground Railroad's southern routes and some captivating stories from their latest book, "Galveston's Juneteenth Story." The episode underscores the rich and often untold history of African Americans in Galveston and the ongoing efforts to preserve and share these stories.